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Nenthead Mines

Alston, Cumbria, England

Attraction Information

Suitable for ages: Babies and Toddlers (0-3), Young Children (4-8) and Older Children (9-12)

Venue type:
Indoor, Outdoor

A really fascinating environment to explore with the landscape having been dramatically altered by the lead and zinc mining industry, and not in the nasty way one might suppose!

The unusually high metallic deposits in the soil have led to rare specimens of plant and lichen which are interesting to identify, leading to the site being an acknowledged Site Of Special Scientific Importance plus the industrial remains include atmospheric mine entrances and vintage buildings so it's a feast for a kids' imagination.

One of the outbuildings features a small museum with interpretive displays on local geological history, plus there are numerous trails and paths intersecting the surrounding grounds to explore.

90 minute guided tours through the mine itself are available on the special open days and well worth doing but it should be noted that these are few and far between, so plan (and book!) ahead. Membership is worth consideration too as it gains you access to additional events.